By Roy Lie Atjam
Early general elections took place in the Netherlands on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, to elect members of the House of Representatives. Initially scheduled for 2028, they were accelerated due to the collapse of the Schoof cabinet after the Party for Freedom (PVV) withdrew from the coalition.
Voter turnout reached 76%. The House of Representatives comprises 150 seats, with 76 needed for a majority. Since 1894, no party has achieved a majority due to the country’s proportional representation system, making coalition formation necessary after extensive negotiations.
Electoral System – Elections occur every four years in March unless a snap election is called. The 150 members are elected through semi-open lists in a single nationwide constituency, requiring a minimum of 0.67% of votes to qualify for seat distribution. Voters can cast preferential votes, with seats allocated first to candidates who meet a threshold of 25% of the Hare quota. Any remaining seats are filled based on candidates’ positions on the list.Unlike the Westminster model, the Dutch make use of a proportional representation system, making it highly unlikely for any one party to obtain a majority. Instead, it is expected that a coalition of political parties will be formed after a period of extensive negotiations.
Election Day – Polling stations operated from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM, with a few in Arnhem, Zwolle, opening shortly after midnight. Train station booths opened early for convenience.
Voting from Abroad – Dutch citizens abroad could vote if they registered with the Municipality of The Hague by September 17, 2025. Transfer of voting passes and proxy voting were permitted.
Electoral Council – The Electoral Council oversees elections and acts as an advisory body on voting laws and procedures.
Possible coalitions
D66 leader Rob Jetten experienced a triumphant night, while left-wing leader Frans Timmermans faced significant setbacks. The spotlight also turned to the far-right figure Geert Wilders, raising intriguing questions about potential coalitions.
Several parties, including GroenLinks/PvdA, VVD, and CDA, have made it clear they do not want to ally with the PVV.
Mr. Jetten has expressed a preference for a coalition that includes the CDA, GroenLinks-PvdA, and VVD. A centre-left coalition could secure 86 seats, whereas a centre-right alliance with D66 would only reach 75 seats—insufficient for a governing majority.
The results with 98% of the votes counted
D66 26
PVV 26
VVD 22
GL-PvdA 20
CDA 18
JA21 9
FvD 7
BBB 4
SP 3
Denk 3
PvdD 3
SGP 3
CU 2
Volt 0
50+ 2
Election results will be validated on November 7, 2025, with the new House of Representatives convening on November 12, 2025.
